End Of Term III Newsletter

June 2024

Message from The Head of School

As we approach the end of this academic year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the journey we have traveled together. This year has been marked by significant milestones, remarkable growth, and transformative changes that will shape the future of our school community.

One of the most significant changes this year has been our rebranding from Oak International School to Acorns International School Bunga. This change reflects our commitment to growth and our vision for the future. The name “Acorns” symbolizes the potential and growth within each of our students, mirroring how an acorn grows into a mighty oak tree. This rebranding aligns with our mission to provide a nurturing environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential.

In line with our rebranding, I am thrilled to announce the successful completion and inauguration of our new state-of-the-art building. This new facility is a testament to our commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students. The modern classrooms, advanced science and computer labs, expansive library, and dedicated arts and sports facilities will significantly enhance our educational offerings and support our students’ holistic development.

This year, we have also seen remarkable growth in our student body and faculty. Our community has expanded, bringing in diverse talents and perspectives that enrich our school environment. Our teachers have continued to inspire and challenge our students, fostering a love for learning and encouraging them to strive for excellence.

As we move into this new chapter, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our students, parents, and staff for their unwavering support and dedication. It is your collective effort that makes Acorns International School a special place. Together, we are building a legacy of excellence, resilience, and community spirit.

I look forward to seeing what the next academic year will bring. Let’s continue to grow, learn, and achieve great things together.

Sincerely, Evelyn Twebaze – Head of School
(headofschool@oakinternational.ac.ug)

Message from The Curriculum Coordinator

Dear Parents,

As we wrap up another successful academic year, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and involvement in our school community. Your active participation plays a vital role in the growth and development of our students, and for that, we are truly grateful.

We were thrilled to see such a wonderful turnout at our recent Celebration of Learning event. It was heart-warming to witness the pride in our students’ eyes as they showcased the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the year. From creative projects and scientific experiments to art and craft displays, our students demonstrated their hard work and dedication. The enthusiasm and dedication of both students and parents made the event a resounding success. Your presence and encouragement meant the world to our students, boosting their confidence and inspiring them to continue striving for excellence.

This year, we have placed a strong emphasis on progressing student literacy and fostering a love for writing. Our literacy competitions have been a significant part of this initiative, aimed at enhancing our students’ writing skills and encouraging them to express themselves creatively. This term, we were excited to announce an article writing competition and rewarded winners with gifts and certificates. We encourage all students to participate and share their unique voices and perspectives through their writing. Writing not only improves communication skills but also helps in critical thinking and self-expression, which are essential for their overall development.

Congratulations to all our students for their impressive end-of-year exam results. A special mention goes to our Year 6 students for completing their checkpoint exams. We eagerly await their results and are confident that their hard work and perseverance will be reflected in their achievements.

We also want to celebrate our Reception and Year 6 students on graduating to the next stage of their academic journey. This milestone is a testament to their growth and readiness to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Congratulations on this significant achievement!

As we approach the summer holidays, we encourage parents to support their children in working on areas of development as outlined in their termly reports. This focused effort will ensure that our students continue to thrive and are well-prepared for the next academic year. The summer break is a great time for students to explore new interests, engage in educational activities, and strengthen their skills. Your guidance and support during this period are invaluable in helping them achieve their full potential.

We are excited to welcome our students back on 15th August 2024. The upcoming year promises many new and exciting changes, including a revised school day designed to enhance the learning experience and overall well-being of our students. We are introducing new programs, activities, and resources that will enrich the educational journey and provide even more opportunities for our students to excel. We look forward to another year of growth, learning, and success.

Once again, thank you for your continued support and commitment to our school community. Together, we will continue to nurture and inspire our students to reach their full potential.

Warm regards,

Nikita Marcellin – Curriculum Coordinator
(cc@oakinternational.ac.ug)

Message from The Finance Admin

Dear OIS family,
We would like to thank you for the efforts made towards clearing school fees on time, however, some have not managed to keep up with timelines.

Please note:
– A minimum of 70% of school fees must be cleared at the beginning of the term.
– Children whose fees have not been cleared will be sent home after 10 days until full school fees are cleared.
– Children with any outstanding amount will not be allowed to begin the new term.
– If you wish to register your child for lunch and transport services please do so before the beginning of the term as it will help us plan better.
– Club list will be sent out at the beginning of the term.
– Offices will be open during holidays from 9 am to 2 pm. For inquiries and payments.
– Please find attached the fees structure. (DOWNLOAD FEES STRUCTURE)

For any further queries:
Email: finance@oakinternational.ac.ug
Call: +256702202775

Happy Holidays!

STAFF IN SERVICE

As the new academic term approached, the school embarked on a week-long staff in-service program to ensure teachers were prepared and empowered for the upcoming challenges. Led by the experienced Ms. Niki the Curriculum Coordinator, the teachers delved into various professional development sessions focusing on assessment strategies and activity-based learning methodologies. Through these workshops, educators were equipped with the necessary tools and insights to effectively engage students and foster a conducive learning environment. With a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm, the staff emerged from the in-service program ready to embark on the academic term, ensuring the final term of the academic year of schooling for students would be enriching and impactful.

INTERNATIONAL EARTHDAY

International Earth Day at the school was a vibrant and engaging event that involved students from all levels, ranging from Early Childhood Development to Secondary education. ECD students, guided by their dedicated teachers, participated in tree planting activities and created colorful handprints as a symbol of their commitment to environmental conservation. Throughout the school, students expressed their dedication to protecting the planet by writing pledges on canvases, spreading awareness about the importance of sustainability. This collective effort not only contributed to the beautification of the school environment but also instilled a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards the Earth among the student body, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious individuals.

CAMBRIDGE EXAMS

The fifth sitting of the Cambridge Exams marked a significant milestone for the school, showcasing the dedication and preparation of both students and staff. Prior to the final exam day, students were provided with invaluable guidance and encouragement during a briefing session led by selected staff and supportive parents. These sessions served as an opportunity for students to receive last-minute tips and advice, instilling confidence and resilience as they approached their exams. The presence of parents further underscored the strong sense of community and partnership between the school and families, highlighting the collective effort towards student success. The school extends its gratitude to the parents for their unwavering support and commitment to the academic journey of their children, contributing to the overall success of the Cambridge Exams.

TALENT SHOW

The school’s talent show captivated audiences with its spectacular showcase of creativity and skill, setting the stage for a memorable evening of entertainment and celebration. Spearheaded by the dedicated efforts of the school’s design experts and music teacher, Mr. Fred, the event exuded professionalism and flair in its organization and presentation. From mesmerizing musical performances to captivating dance routines and cultural fusion acts, students showcased their diverse talents and passions with confidence and enthusiasm. The talent show not only provided a platform for students to shine but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and appreciation within the school community. As the culmination of the event approached, the head of the school took center stage to honor and recognize the outstanding talents, further fueling the spirit of achievement and excellence among the student body.

FRANCOPHONE DAY

At the heart of the school’s calendar, a vibrant celebration unfolded on Francophone Day, orchestrated by the enthusiastic leadership of Mr. Yves. As the clock struck the designated hour, the corridors buzzed with anticipation, and classrooms echoed with the rhythmic beats of French tunes.

The event, spanning a compact yet lively hour, was a jubilant ode to the diverse array of nations around the globe that share the French language as a common thread. From the cobblestone streets of Paris to the sun-drenched shores of Africa, every corner of the Francophone world found its voice in this jubilant gathering.

The festivities kicked off with a spirited dance performance, choreographed to the infectious rhythms of French songs. Students swayed and twirled with gusto, their movements a testament to the universal language of music that transcends borders and unites souls.

Next came the translation quizzes, a thrilling test of linguistic prowess that challenged students to unravel the nuances of the French language. With pens poised and minds sharpened, they tackled each question with fervor, showcasing their command of vocabulary and grammar with each correct answer.

But the highlight of the afternoon was undoubtedly the drama segment, where students took to the stage to showcase their flair for French theater. With scripts in hand and passion in their hearts, they brought to life scenes from beloved French plays, their performances infused with emotion and authenticity.

As the curtains fell on the final act, a wave of applause reverberated through the hall, mingling with the echoes of laughter and conversation. Francophone Day had come to a close, but its spirit lingered in the hearts of all who had participated, a testament to the enduring bond forged by language and culture.

As students dispersed, their minds buzzing with newfound knowledge and their hearts brimming with memories, they knew that this afternoon would be one to remember—a celebration of diversity, unity, and the timeless beauty of the French language.

Oak and Galaxy Unite in Friendly Games

The atmosphere at Galaxy International School was electrifying as students from Oak International School (OIS) geared up for a friendly sports extravaganza. With basketball and football on the agenda, excitement ran high among students of all ages.

The basketball court buzzed with anticipation as the girls’ teams from both schools took to the court. OIS girls showcased their skills, nearly tipping the scales in their favor with a narrow loss of 19-21. Despite falling short by just two points, their determination and teamwork were evident throughout the game, earning them admiration from both sides.

On the football field, it was a thrilling showdown between the girls’ teams once again. In a tightly contested match, both teams displayed remarkable prowess, resulting in a hard-fought draw with a final scoreline of 2-2. The resilient spirit and sportsmanship shown by the players left spectators cheering for more.

While the girls showcased their prowess and resilience, the boys faced tough competition in both basketball and football. Despite their best efforts, they fell short in both sports, reflecting on the need for improvement. However, with unwavering determination and a hunger for victory, they are eagerly looking forward to their next encounter, determined to bounce back stronger.

Beyond the scores, the friendly games fostered camaraderie and mutual respect among students from different schools. It was a celebration of sportsmanship, where the thrill of competition was complemented by the joy of forging new friendships and memories that would last a lifetime. As the sun set on the sporting arena, it was clear that the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie prevailed, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next friendly encounter between OIS and Galaxy International School.

ARTICLE COMPETITION

STAFF BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

GRADUATION & CELEBRATION OF LEARNING

The Oak Celebration of Learning and Graduation for the academic year 2023-2024 was a momentous event that marked the achievements of students completing different levels at the school.

The day commenced with an impressive exhibition spanning across all school levels, where students proudly showcased their projects and accomplishments in science, art, and technology. This exhibition not only highlighted their academic growth but also demonstrated their creativity and dedication throughout the year.

Following the exhibition, an exclusive graduation ceremony took place, honoring the Year 6 students who were completing their primary level education and the Reception class students who were transitioning from early childhood education. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as students, along with their invited well-wishers, parents, and teaching staff, gathered to celebrate this milestone.

The event was elevated by an exhilarating speech delivered by Gelila Samuel, a student from the Reception class, whose eloquence captivated everyone present. Her heartfelt words added a special touch to the occasion, resonating with both students and guests alike.

During the ceremony, recognition was extended to notable individuals for their exceptional contributions. Elijah Kox Mwesigwa received special acknowledgment as the very first admission of the school, highlighting the journey of Oak School since its inception. Outgoing PTO Secretary Mrs. Damaris and Chairperson Mrs. Kinuma were also recognized for their commendable work and dedication to the school community.

The school director took the opportunity to update stakeholders on upcoming changes within the school, emphasizing a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education. Additionally, the director acknowledged the efforts of students who participated in the OAK school logo competition. Atarah (Year 10), Kaila (Year 9), and Arianna (Year 8) were awarded cash prizes and medals for their outstanding designs, further celebrating their creativity and talent.

The event culminated with a joyful atmosphere of camaraderie, as attendees shared a meal and participated in the ceremonial cake cutting. Confetti filled the air, accompanied by vibrant music, creating a memorable conclusion to the academic year. It was indeed a day filled with pride, achievement, and a sense of community, marking the completion of another successful chapter at Oak School.